Shirley Elaine Kelly, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), 56, of Riverview, with her loving family at her side, passed away peacefully at The Moncton Hospital on Friday September 21, 2012. Born in Moncton, she was the daughter of Norma (Parlee) Kelly of Riverview and the late Ralph Kelly. Besides her mother, Shirley will be sadly missed by her sisters, Nancy Brown (John) and Cathy Leaman, as well as her brother Dale; nieces and nephews, Andrew, Joanna, Anthony and Kelly Brown, Deanna and Brock Leaman, Ben and Pamela Kelly. And of course her special terrier pal, Rudy. We also recognize two special family friends and Shirley confidants, godfather Ralph Black and long-time employer and mentor, George Rideout. Shirley was a Mount Allison graduate with a BA in Psychology and French. Her distinguished 35 plus years of work included paths in the legal profession and administrative roles in a federal constituency office as well as medicine; completing her work contribution with 10 years at The Moncton Hospital. Outside of work, Shirley was an avid and dedicated volunteer to many organizations including Girl Guides of Canada, Toastmasters International (TI), Ovarian Cancer Canada (OCC) and St. George’s Anglican Church. In each of these organizations she earned and carried with passion, valuable leadership roles. She enjoyed time coaching youth, being a cheerleader and tireless supporter of communication and leadership colleagues, she worked diligently to broaden awareness of the disease that eventually lead to her passing and finally she was committed to many years as a lay reader within the church that played an important role in her faith. Two special volunteer notes; first, she always hoped that her efforts with OCC, especially her Moncton walk, would be a contribution towards others avoiding the painful journey she experienced. Shirley was particularly pleased with this year’s walk as she was able to participate from a hospital bed through the use of technology; waving and speaking with the 150 plus volunteers and walkers who raised more than $22,000 for the OCC cause. In 2012, The Town of Riverview graciously facilitated the creation of ‘The Grove of Hope’, starting with three maple trees that offer a reflective sanctuary of those impacted by cancer. On a second volunteer note, Shirley inspired many individuals within the Toastmasters International world. Her positive contribution to the organization and related individuals is beyond measure. She earned and held many leadership roles, none more important than the other; however, she did notably achieve a District Governor (DG) role. There are only 88 DG’s around the globe in the 280,000 member organization found in 116 countries. She twice also ran for International Director, a challenge she really enjoyed. These TI achievements are amazing, especially for a once shy woman, a person that would rarely speak in public and very few times take on any leadership role or desire to "Step Into the Spotlight." Beyond these commitments, Shirley lived a full life; first and foremost were her ‘kids’, Shirley enriched the lives of her nieces and nephews in many ways, always remembering significant times in each life. Second, she enjoyed her many golf outings – never missing an opportunity to swing the clubs. Another passion in life was travel, Shirley was known to explore places like Australia, many parts of the U.S., St. Lucia, Mexico, and others sun spots. We would be remiss not to mention her extraordinary baking skills, especially the internationally renowned ‘ginger cookies’ that traveled anywhere she or her friends/family were headed; the energy food of choice. Through her life there are many character traits people would use to describe Shirley; ‘a tough cookie’, caring, demonstrated love for others, high expectations of self, attention to detail, courage, a sense of fairness, her quick wit and sense of humour. Many people would comment on her flair for fashion; she always wanted to look classy, enjoyed appearing annually in fashion shows and perfected the skill of being professionally attired. The Kelly family expresses their deep gratitude to all those who encouraged, cheered and supported Shirley, especially those dedicated to the last few months of care - the ‘army of angels’ that worked 24/7 addressing every ache being experienced, Blue Cross, Jean-Coutu in Riverview and the Extra-Mural Care personnel. The incredible and loving staff at the Dr. Georges-L. Dumont University Hospital and The Moncton Hospital provided excellent healthcare, for which we are very appreciative. A special mention and appreciation to the doctors and nurses in the palliative unit at The Moncton Hospital, their professionalism and care made her transition as comfortable as humanly possible. Finally, we express our heartfelt appreciation for the spiritual leadership and comfort provided by the Rector of St. George’s Anglican Church, Rev. Chris VanBuskirk. Visitation at Ferguson Knowles Funeral Home, 1657 Mountain Road, Moncton (858-1995) on Saturday September 22nd from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Funeral Service at Ferguson Knowles Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday September 23rd, 2012 at 2:00 pm, Rev. Chris VanBuskirk officiating. Reception in the Funeral Home Reception Centre following the service. Interment, Alderwood Cemetery, Riverview. Those interested to make a donation in Shirley’s memory are encouraged to choose their favorite charitable organization; alternatively she would be pleased if the following charities received support, Friends of The Moncton Hospital Foundation, St. George’s Anglican Church or Ovarian Cancer Canada. Online condolences at www.fergusonknowlesfh.com www.fergusonknowlesfh.com